Protests in favor of Palestine result in multiple detentions in Berlin - Protests in Berlin lead to multiple detentions during a pro-Palestinian rally
In the heart of Berlin, thousands gathered in June 2025 for a pro-Palestinian demonstration, voicing their concerns over the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The event, themed "Solidarity with Palestine - Stop the Gaza Genocide," attracted over 10,000 participants, according to police reports.
The demonstration, planned to go from Kantstraße to Wittenbergplatz via Wilmersdorfer Straße, was halted at Wielandstraße by police due to safety concerns. Despite the restrictions, the gathering continued for approximately an hour, with demonstrators chanting slogans such as "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free" and accusing Israel of genocide, while also opposing German arms shipments to Israel.
Karoline Preisler, an FDP politician, was among the participants, holding a sign reading "Until the last hostage." She advocated for the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. A brief scuffle occurred when Karoline Preisler was approached during the demonstration, but police protected her throughout the event.
The conflict in Gaza has been a source of international concern since October 2023, when attacks by Hamas and other Islamic terrorist organizations on Israel sparked a military campaign. Approximately 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 taken hostage during the initial attack. Since then, Gaza has suffered severe infrastructural and civilian damage over 20 months of warfare.
The Israeli government categorically rejects the accusation of genocide in the Gaza Strip. However, whether Israel's actions constitute genocide is a controversial topic among lawyers and activists. Talks are currently underway about a ceasefire and the release of hostages in the Gaza conflict.
The pro-Palestinian demonstration in Berlin is part of a broader movement across Europe. Several participants were temporarily arrested for using banned symbols during the event. There have been reports of excessive police force against demonstrators, including minors, and arbitrary arrests. The Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, has raised serious concerns regarding these measures, highlighting infringements on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
The situation remains volatile, with ongoing violence in Gaza, persistent international protests, and heightened scrutiny of civil liberties in Europe. The number of hostages held by Hamas remains unknown, and no recent major breakthrough has been announced in hostage negotiations. The Council of Europe and other watchdogs continue to pressure Germany and other states to uphold freedom of expression and avoid suppressing political discourse.
- The pro-Palestinian demonstration in Berlin was a manifestation of the ongoing political discourse regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as it touched upon various community and employment policies, particularly those relating to human rights and international affairs.
- The controversial situation in Gaza, marked by conflict, genocide accusations, and hostage taking, has sparked protests and debates across Europe, prompting calls for the protection of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, as well as the scrutiny of employment policies concerning arms shipments and their impact on international politics.
